Call to reduce nuclear costs and delays

A report by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) has called for the UK Government to streamline the approval process for building nuclear power stations.

The professional body wants ministers to commission an independent review of the generic design assessment (GDA) process to keep costs low.

A GDA for each nuclear reactor built in the UK must be approved by regulators.

IMechE wants the process simplified so small modular reactors (SMRs) can be built.

Skills shortage

Jenifer Baxter, Head of Energy and Environment at IMechE and lead author of the report, said: “The delays and escalating costs of the Hinkley Point C project, has provoked a public backlash in recent years against nuclear power.

“Yet as a reliable and relatively low carbon source of electricity, it makes sense for nuclear to form a greater part of the UK’s future energy mix, reducing our reliance on coal and gas.

“It is also vital that as the UK prepares to leave the European Union that nuclear construction skills are added to the shortage occupation list ― which would allow experienced workers from oversees to enter the UK.”